Facts: Indian Meal Moths
Name: Plodia interpunctella
Appearance: Indian meal moths are generally easy to identify by the reddish-brown markings on its front wings. The upper parts of the front wings are grey in color. ¾” average wingspan.
Habit: Attracted to light like most moths. This pest is one of the most common stored food pests in homes and businesses alike. They will infest a variety of dried food products including pet food, cereal, and flour.
Health/Damage Concerns: Indian meal moths will infest a wide variety of products. Food production, packaging, and storage facilities should be aware of this pest, as it can cause large amounts of food to be unusable once contaminated.
Diet: Common food sources include cereal, pet food (including bird seed), nuts, flour, and spices.
Reproduction: Female Indian meal moths are active at night, and during this time they will place their eggs directly on or near a food source. Eggs are very tiny, and translucent white in color making them extremely difficult to see. As the larvae hatch, they begin to infest the food source nearby. The larvae will leave behind a silk-like webbing as it feeds on the food source, a clear indicator that there is pest activity. Once fully grown, the larvae will leave the food source to find a suitable location to spin a cocoon. These cocoons are often found in corners of cabinets and in small, protected cracks and crevices around the food source. These pests can have several generations of offspring a year.
Our Services
We have been providing pest control solutions for New Jersey homes and businesses for over 80 years. Trust a company with the experience and knowledge to get the job done right.
Click below for more information on our pest control services.
Click HERE For A Free Estimate!
With a free estimate from one of our experienced professionals, you learn about all of the benefits of Paramount’s services. We will work with you to design a specialized program specific to your needs! Call or click for a free estimate.